Rottweiler

A Confident Dog

Bold, Stubborn, Working Group

Rottweiler are extraordinary pets. While it is interesting to learn about the breeding purpose of Rottweiler, their genetics actually influence health, outward appearance and behavior. Some behaviors make the Rottweiler and some can be quite irritating!

Understanding their unique needs will help you keep them healthy and will create a stronger bond between the two of you. Explore this page to learn more about where the Rottweiler came from, which health conditions are a risk to them and how to keep them feeling their best.

Breed Details

Height:22-27"Weight:80-135 lbLifespan:8-12 years

Size

5

1=small 5=large

Grooming requirements

3

1 = little grooming - 5 = much grooming

Energy level

2

1 = low energy - 5 = high energy

Ease of training

3

1 = difficult - 5 = easy

Affection toward owners

4

1 = independent - 5 = very affectionate

Friendliness toward strangers

Routine Care: Rottweilers are smart dogs with lots of energy, so keep their mind and body active, or they'll get bored. They can be sensitive to warm temperatures; avoid any prolonged exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. They should be leash walked and a sturdy fence is a must due to their large size.

Grooming:They have low grooming needs. Brush their coat as needed, at least weekly.

Dental: Rottweilers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week.

Ear Care: Clean their ears weekly, even as a puppy. Don’t worry—your veterinarian can show you how!

Rottweilers are proud workers and noble companions. They are happiest when they have a job to do and receive ample exercise.

Positive Traits:

Well suited as a companion, family dog, or working dog

Confident, steady, and fearless

Even temper and gentle disposition

Large, strong, and athletic, with lots of stamina in cooler climates

Protective of owners; excellent guard dog

Intelligent and easy to train

Negative Traits:

Must be properly socialized as a puppy to avoid aggression as an adult

Needs regular exercise and diet regulation to avoid weight gain

Easily bored or distracted if not given something to do

Can be strong-willed

Sensitive, matures slowly

Territorial with larger dogs, especially of the same sex

Whether you are considering adding a new Rottweiler to your family or you already have one as a companion, it is important for you to know about the genetically linked diseases known to occur more often in this breed. Of course not every Rottweiler will have these problems, but research shows your pal is more at risk than other breeds.

By exploring the health concerns specific to the Rottweiler you will become a knowledgeable and confident pet parent. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about breed risks every time you visit and educate yourself on the most important signs to watch for at home. They're counting on you to be their health expert.

It is believed that the Rottweiler was developed by Romans while in Germany around 74 AD. They were used to drive cattle by day and to guard the herd by night. They were bred to be large and strong, and to help control and navigate large bulls. When herding cattle was made illegal, Rotties became nearly extinct! They became popular again when they found work with butchers as draught dogs. In the early 1900’s a breed club was formed and has worked hard to preserve the breed ever since. With proper socialization they make a strong and loyal companion. The Rottweiler is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12 years.

Consult with a veterinarian if your Rottweiler shows signs of the following:

Care

Routine Care: Rottweilers are smart dogs with lots of energy, so keep their mind and body active, or they'll get bored. They can be sensitive to warm temperatures; avoid any prolonged exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. They should be leash walked and a sturdy fence is a must due to their large size.

Grooming:They have low grooming needs. Brush their coat as needed, at least weekly.

Dental: Rottweilers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week.

Ear Care: Clean their ears weekly, even as a puppy. Don’t worry—your veterinarian can show you how!

Characteristics

Rottweilers are proud workers and noble companions. They are happiest when they have a job to do and receive ample exercise.

Positive Traits:

Well suited as a companion, family dog, or working dog

Confident, steady, and fearless

Even temper and gentle disposition

Large, strong, and athletic, with lots of stamina in cooler climates

Protective of owners; excellent guard dog

Intelligent and easy to train

Negative Traits:

Must be properly socialized as a puppy to avoid aggression as an adult

Needs regular exercise and diet regulation to avoid weight gain

Easily bored or distracted if not given something to do

Can be strong-willed

Sensitive, matures slowly

Territorial with larger dogs, especially of the same sex

Health Concerns

Whether you are considering adding a new Rottweiler to your family or you already have one as a companion, it is important for you to know about the genetically linked diseases known to occur more often in this breed. Of course not every Rottweiler will have these problems, but research shows your pal is more at risk than other breeds.

By exploring the health concerns specific to the Rottweiler you will become a knowledgeable and confident pet parent. Be sure to speak with your veterinarian about breed risks every time you visit and educate yourself on the most important signs to watch for at home. They're counting on you to be their health expert.

History

It is believed that the Rottweiler was developed by Romans while in Germany around 74 AD. They were used to drive cattle by day and to guard the herd by night. They were bred to be large and strong, and to help control and navigate large bulls. When herding cattle was made illegal, Rotties became nearly extinct! They became popular again when they found work with butchers as draught dogs. In the early 1900’s a breed club was formed and has worked hard to preserve the breed ever since. With proper socialization they make a strong and loyal companion. The Rottweiler is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12 years.

Watch Out For

Consult with a veterinarian if your Rottweiler shows signs of the following:

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